Code of practice
ABRSM expects that all staff, which for these purposes includes anybody in paid or unpaid work on its behalf (Honorary Local Representatives, stewards and examiners as well as staff) will be aware of this Code of Practice and adhere to its principles in their approach to all children.
- The exam process should be as open as possible, and it is important that no more time should be spent alone with children than is necessary to conduct the exam.
- It is important not to have physical contact with children and this should be avoided.
- It is not good practice to take children alone in a car on journeys, however short.
- Do not make suggestive or inappropriate remarks to or about a child, even in fun, as this could be misinterpreted.
- It is important not to deter children from making a ‘disclosure’ of abuse through fear of not being believed, and to listen to what they have to say. Guidance on handling a disclosure is set out in Appendix C. If this gives rise to a child protection concern it is important to follow ABRSM’s procedure for reporting such concerns, and not to attempt to investigate the concern yourself.
- Remember that those who abuse children can be of any age (even other children), gender, ethnic background or class, and it is important not to allow personal preconceptions about people to prevent appropriate action taking place.
- Good practice includes valuing and respecting children as individuals, and the adult modelling of appropriate conduct - which will always exclude bullying, shouting, racism, sectarianism or sexism.